The International Message of National Identity
I was elected to Parliament in 1970. My first trip abroad was as part of a parliamentary delegation to Czechoslovakia in 1972. The Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Gurdial Singh Dhillon was the leader of the delegation.
Those days Czechoslovakia had been very much in the news. In 1965, following assumption of leadership of the Czechoslovak Communist Party by Alexander Dubcek, the Party contemplated drastic changes in domestic policy – restoration of the right to freedom of assembly and freedom of speech, and imposition of severe restrictions on the secret police. This plan of action described as the ‘Socialist Democratic Revolution’ by the Czechs deeply upset Moscow.
In 1968, an angry U.S.S.R. decided to crush these ‘Democratic’ proclivities. Czechoslovakia was invaded with 600,000 troops. An armed purge of all liberals in the Communist Party was carried out, Dubcek was thrown out, and a new government installed. The country was once again reduced to its earlier status of being Moscow’s vassal state.
When I agreed to go to Czechoslovakia with the parliamentary delegation, I thought to myself why not visit U.S.S.R. also on the way? So I planned my trip to Prague via Moscow. The Secretary General of the Lok Sabha Shri S.L. Shakdhar, who later became the country’s Chief Election Commissioner, tried hard to dissuade me. ‘You belong to the Jana Sangh. Your party’s critical opinions about Communism and about Moscow’s invasion of Czechoslovakia are well known. I fear lest you may have any problems because of that.’
I went to U.S.S.R. nevertheless. Except for a rigorous search of my baggage at the airport, I do not recall having any problems. I stayed in Moscow for two days. It was the month of May, and Moscow was unusually warm. I remember an interesting experience I had at the Hotel I was staying in. Dressed in my traditional attire, Dhoti-kurta, when I came down to the lobby, I ran into a Russian lady who I found was staring intently at my dress. Soon she walked up to me and addressing me asked: “India?â€. She paused just a moment, and added “Raj Kapoor India?â€
I replied nodding my head in affirmation. But that brief interaction made me acutely conscious how films and film stars also can become hallmarks of national identity, and possibly powerful agents of international proximity and friendship.
This episode came to my mind last night while I was attending an NDTV function held mainly to honour the heroes of the recent terrorist outrage in Mumbai. Also honoured on the occasion was Aamir Khan for his film Taare Zameen Par and Director Danny Boyle and the cast of Award winning Slumdog Millionaire. A.R. Rahman, the music director of this film has won numerous awards abroad, including the Golden Globe. Many in India are anxiously looking forward to Rahman as well as the film bagging several Oscars as well. Already, the film has earned as many as ten nominations.
Aamir’s Taare Zameen Par is a beautiful film whose story hinges around a nine-year old boy afflicted with dyslexia, an ailment that affects a child’s brain resulting in his inability to see the difference between the shapes of letters. The affliction causes what can colloquially be described as ‘word blindness’. The script of Aamir’s film, and his Direction were truly outstanding, so were Prasoon Joshi’s lyrics and the music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy.
In one of my earlier blog posts I had quoted from a thought provoking piece written by former BBC correspondent in India, Mark Tully, as to how India had given a very distinctive meaning to secularism. Tully’s observation were excerpted from the foreword he had written for a coffee table book titled “ India : A Timeless Celebration†by Amit Mehra.
Bollywood
The book had been published by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.I understand that in April 2006 the Ministry created a special Public Diplomacy Division because government felt that “in today’s world, successful foreign policy practitioners need to have an open and regular dialogue with civil society, NGOs, academia, think tanks and the media.†It was this newly setup Division which had conceived and brought out this excellent book.
After seeing Mehra’s book, I enquired whether this new division had brought out any other similar products. By now I have been able to lay hands on a number of Audio CDs produced by the Division - CDs comprising the best numbers from Bombay film music over the years, as also, CDs containing music on yoga, meditation, spiritual and religious therapies.
I wish to compliment the Division heartily on these innovative initiatives. I hope we are not going to see any pseudo-secularist raise a howl that even the MEA is now being saffronised. I have already seen some sections of the media trying to create a rumpus against schools in Madhya Pradesh having their students sing Vande Mataram, or perform Surya Namaskars as part of physical exercises.
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Tags: lk advani, Music Therapy, Public Diplomacy Division, The Destress Series
January 24th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Good Topic ! I am glad that you are thinking in this line. Have you heard about RONIN (Samurai with no lord or master) ? Once we lost Chandragupta, Shivaji, Maharana or Lachit we became Ronin. Again we lost Bhagat Singh, Sardarji and Netaji Bose, we became the same. Now pretending to be something that we are not. But Can you help India to get out from this?
January 24th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Mr. Advani, why didn’t you touch upon the pseudosecularist message being perpetrated in the name of international cinema? Slumdog Millionaire is putting india on the world map for all the wrong reasons.
People warmed up to indians in foreign countries due to knowledge of their movies, film stars and music. But the days of Raj Kapoor and Nargis are over, taking with it the social responsibility of films.
Such movies show india in a very wrong light. it is not just poverty that we have in our country. we also have a lot of hope, culture… none of this is shown in slumdog.
on the contrary, it is a pornography of poverty, which paints india as a country of slums and exploitation and class divide.
January 24th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
contd..
This movie also paints Hindus as the aggressors who start off communal riots killing muslim women and children. Which is as far from the truth as can be.
When I compare Charles de Gaulle airport and Bangalore International airport, i see the difference… Charled de Gaulle has a lot of beggars, pickpockets…. it’s worse than Kempegowda Bus Terminus in that sense.
It hurts me when acquaintances from abroad ask me if we have supermarkets, phones and internet in India.
January 24th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
contd…
I expected you to take a strong stance on such perverted filmmaking which chooses to show selective reality in the crudest possible fashion, not keeping in mind local sensibilities or the image of india they are projecting to the rest of the world.
this irresponsibility should be censured as strongly as possible, as the amount of praise might wrongly cultivate the image of a poor india in young impressionable minds, taking away even the little pride the next generation will have in being an Indian.
I was disappointed you just fleetingly mentioned Slumdog Millionaire in this context.
hopefully you will watch this movie and write a post elaborating on these points and all that that is wrong with it.
January 24th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Dear Sir,
Request you to put your focus on this issue.
Govt. is taking education cess.Spending millions on spreading education.
But on other end Income tax dept. is exempting tax “ONLY ON FEE RECEIPTS” that belongs to your own Child.Recently My cousin sister wanted to do medical education . But my salary amount gets consumed in tax payments.If IT Dept. extends the limit of accepting Fee receipts of not only OWN CHILDREN but also everyone in national interest or at least extends this limit to more relatives then this will be a healthy step not only for me but also all Indians + YOU AND YOUR FAMILY + IT WOULD be in Country’s interest.Sir,…Please escalate.
Ravi
January 24th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
And assign think tanks to introduce such reverse tasks which is a bliss to Indian citizens + boon to Indian economy & social bonds + gives fames to the ruling people like you.
There are still a lot of waivers such that
Investment by Govt. over those issues is say Rs. 100
But if tax waivers like above given example are given then purpose of govt. is solved+govt. & govt. officials earns respect+tendency by people to steal tax declines means
Results gained is equivalent to results gained by investing Rs.100 by govt. over that issue.
Kind request to please look into this matter for benefit of all including you & me.
Ravi
January 24th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
As told in Shrimad Bhagvat Lord Vishnu resides in major 14 places. As given in Hindu Mythology whenever devils attack they attack this 14 places. Prime 2 are COW AND BRAHMIN. Brahmins are totally wiped out. Now at least cow is still there. Look at Gujarat. Cow-killing is a sin. MP also followed this. When is BJP going to make the COW our national animal and when would this be their agenda- that when we will govern cow killing would be an offence by law. If you believe in existence of divine powers like Vishnu,Shiva etc. please take side of not killing cows and I m quited hopeful this will give you and your party even more benefits that you believe to gain by visiting Somnath temple and doing Shiva Puja.
January 24th, 2009 at 6:12 pm
I hope you are aware of the Websites published by Bengali Hindu victim highlighting attrocities on them.So looking to Bengal’s situation where Hindus are cruelly murdered in non Hindu major areas you should take initiative in making Narendra Modi as our Defence Minister.Look at Gujarat. All bugs were bustered by him so transparently. Please let this man go high to protect innocent Hindus and ruining their lives by evil people. This would increase your Punya bal as you would be gaining the blessings of all those innocent Hindu families who are still destined to be the hosts of this evil people. Only Narendra Modi can handle this & curb the growth of such evil people.So don’t think more & just do it bcos Lord Krishna says karmaneyvadhikaraste ma faleshu kadachana. Its high time now and we have the Vazir of chess and thats no one else than Modi. Good Luck.
January 24th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
Please put a ban on Media where they shout again and again as “Pakistan” is doing this evil and that evil. Command them to use “Islamabad” and “ISI”. This is an American Technique. During Afghanistan warfare they cleverly used the term “AL Qaeda”, Taliban and never used Afghanistan. This is a psychological tactic which helps in weakening the Sangh power of terrorists. There are a lot of Pakistanis who believe eg. Nawaz Sharif who said something in side of goodness..but if Indian media uses terms as Pakistans then evil people ruling Pakistan gets more support bcos Nawaz Sharif and million other muslims who were expected to rib out this evil ruling people on the contrary starts aiding them forgetting their mutual differences.
January 24th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
But if terms like Islamabad and ISI are used then we get freinds like Nawaz Sharif and we dont lose them. Remember Vibhishan’s role in decline of Ravana. I dont favour Muslims but i really favour to see evil muslims getting weakened bcos this is in the interest of the whole world be it a Hindu, a Christian or Muslim himself. Jai Hind! And have a Good day or night whatever.
Ravi
January 24th, 2009 at 6:30 pm
It’s good to see sir you are not only fond of Bollywood movies ,also have good views great.
I think you should also put your views on Current Reservation System running in India that will take too closer to youth,i think.
Please write your views on reservation,health,education .
Your speech on Netaji Birthday was awesome.
Jai Hind
Vivek Singh
S/W Engineer.
January 24th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
This is my first time to your blog, sir. Will you accept my emails and reply. I would like to say something about confidence motion brought by Congress party. What i say is, BJP did not do well . Nobody talked properly including you. But from Congress side they had put up it properly.One of BJP M.P. from Bihar , just folding his clothes.No body talked about Bofors.Why?You should have done it.
January 24th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Namste Advaniji,
I like the issue u have raised in your current post. That is exactly the need to keep all the Indian citizens in one thread. I think for the first time a politician, that too of your height, has touched such an important issue. We could be following different ideologies, different religions but nothing should come in between our mother land and we the Indians. When it comes to our country, we must have an attitude of ‘Country First’.
I too maintain one blog ‘countryfirstfeeling.blog.co.in’. Visit it if u can. This should be made a debating point across the country.
January 24th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Dear Sri Advani ji,
Two clarifications, which I think, are awaited from your side, by the people. First merely saying that your statement on Mr. Jinnah was inspired by some inspiration of Swami ji is not sufficient. After going through the famous Aug11th,1947,speech of Jinnah and inconsistency in his subsequent acts and speeches, especially, related to Pakistan’s transition from a secular state as depicted in Jinnah’s speech to an Islamic country, provide sufficient grounds for warranted clarification.
Secondly, electronic media, which includes internet, gives a sort of ease, carelessness and arrogance and thereby raises the chance that majority of Indian youth will be excluded. So a careful balance has to be maintained to disseminate the influence to the maximum.
Regards
dr s s d Pandey
January 25th, 2009 at 2:34 am
Respected Advani ji,
While the rise of the BJP has brought welcome change to India since the 80’s by ushering in pride in the nation and history of the nation, there has also, of late, been an explosion of pseudo-scientific practices in the country. Tradition is good and wholesome in order to create a sense of national identity, but the government should make it clear that modern science and all that it has to offer is far superior to anything tradition can. THERE IS NO SHAME IN ADMITTING THAT OUR ANCESTORS COULD NOT PRODUCE REMEDIES THAT CANNOT COMPETE WITH MODERN MEDICINE. AFTER ALL, THEY LIVED SOME 3500 YEARS AGO! While Yoga and Surya Namaskar and Ayurveda is all very good, they should not be allowed to undermine the wonders that modern medicine has brought us.
Sincerely,
Abhishek
http://theindianoracle.blogspot.com/
January 25th, 2009 at 6:04 am
Respect Advani Ji
Your topic is extremely timely and obviously important. I am surprised that a man as busy as you and involved in most serious subjects in life, able to find time and even interest in Bollywood movies!! Great learning experience for me!
Talking of bollywood’s importance in international relations etc., a thought come to my mind about Underworld’s influence on our movies. It is a open secret that most notorious Underworld Dons - Dawood Ibrahim and Co. are or were manupulating our Film Industry for long.. It led to downfall of films in all respects - Quality in Script, actor line-up, music and musicians.. Can anything be done to prevent it??
January 25th, 2009 at 6:59 am
Mr. Advani,
A very refreshing blog post. I am happy to see your interest in art and literature, and it clearly reflects the vastness and diversity of your personality.
It will be great to have a PM like you and I am sure your interest will be reflected in your administration’s efforts to revitalize art and literature.
The state of our libraries is terrible, infact the culture of public libraries is almost non-existencial. There needs to be investment in public libraries to nurture the habit of reading at an affordable cost and also to stop piracy, something which is detrimental to an artist’s desire to create.
Thanks and Regards.
January 25th, 2009 at 10:54 am
This piece by Kanchan Gupta in the pioneer is worth reading: http://www.dailypioneer.com/152164/Slumdog-is-about-defaming-Hindus.html
January 25th, 2009 at 11:46 am
Resp. Advani ji
SAT SHREE AKAL
Please visit my site http://www.sangatsansar.com
January 25th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Taslima was thrown out of WB, India. Da Vinci Code was banned in many states. Even Court verdicts don’t matter to psuedos. Abuse Hindus (remember hero worship of MF Hussin?), pamper worst kind of minority fundamentalism for votebank seems to be the norm.
Madhu Kishwar put it rightly in her book “Religion at the service of nationalism” which is very appropriate here:
“The preference of large sections of the Muslim leadership and westernised Muslim intelligentsia for a Nehruvian brand of secularism has proved to be very harmful for Muslims in the long run. In the process they have rejected & ridiculed Gandhi’s approach to inter-community harmony largely because they are uneasy with his use of certain Hindu symbols. This has strengthened the feeling that the Muslim leadership is innately hostile to the Hindus who are rooted in their own faith and is comfortable only with westernised Hindus like Nehru who are contemptuous of their own culture, religion and people.”
January 25th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
Shri Advaniji,
Please do something to enable NRIs to vote during the elections. I understand the Americans can vote at the American embassy and so can Philipines nationals. As NRIs living in Gulf Countries, we lose out on exercising our right / perform our duty, IF we cannot travel back to India to vote.
Also, I would like to know how we NRIs can contribute to ensuring BJP’s victory in general elections. I am confident the BJP under your leadership will give the people of India “Good Governance” and take a tough stand on issues like “Terrorism”.
Jai Hind,
Vikram
Saudi Arabia
January 25th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Its great to see your comments on the subject issue. How apt and prudent it would be if BJP would like to make attempts on two accounts in their election manifesto
i) Free education to all children till 14 years- To make our society responsible for their own development I feel that education is the most important aspect which under your able guidance BJP should strive for, as this shall make our citizens more self reliant instead of always looking for help. This shall only happen once govt. ensures education to all…. Schemes to promote people across board to reach to remote. I Feel doing this we shall be able to create more Ramanujam, & Dr.Khurana like people who can make our national identity MORE OFTEN known to the world.
(ii) I feel a bit amused when in more than a billion population not even 1 Gold winner is from India in any International Game. A national policy is urgently required.
(iii) National Social Security Identification a must for all-Urgently required.
January 25th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
Dear Advaniji,
Why is the BJP silent on the SPECTRUM SCAM?Why dont BJP expose the corrupt government under the “Mr.CleaN” MMS?PLEASE read today’s article by M J akbar “SIEGE WITHIN”on sunday times,he clearly spells out that BJP is confused and not an affective opposition even when elections are due!!!!THIS IS DO OR DIE BATTLE”
REGARD
PUNEETH KUMAR
January 25th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Respected Advani Ji,
I do not know the details of Uniform Civil Code, but I do know that only a unified system like that would save India from breaking apart.
Almost half of the country is creeping towards a civil war, millions don’t have a descent living, those martyrs who sacrificed do not have any dignity, and as the going says “yeh India hey edher sab kuch chaaltha hey”.
I still wonder more than five decades of tormented ‘congress-raj’ people still vote for them. Why?????.
The great independence striggle and the sacrifices is just another holiday. The Vision of Swami ji and others is no more talked about. Why???
Increased crime rate and never ending bureaucratic hurdles, common man like me where are we heading for???
I’m 32 yrs old, doing slavery in Middle East to support my family, just like me there are millions. What’s the future for us????
January 25th, 2009 at 10:27 pm
Dear Advaniji
r u noticing!!!!! SEBI has been waiting to interrogate RAMLINGAM RAJU of SATYAM ,THEY CANNOT GET HIM ,just like INDIA IS WAITING TO GET DAWOOD,MOULANA AZHAR, AND THE LET’s paid mercenaries!!!!!!!
Why cant SEBI QUIZZ RAJU?? Is SEBI serious about quizzing RAJU???? :wHO IS STANDING BEHIND RAJU???????WHY IS THE BJP NOT EXPOSING Y RAJSHEKAR REDDY’S NEXUS WITH SATYAM’S RAJU AND THE DRAMA ENACTED BY YSR AFTERMATH THE “CONFESSION OF RAJU??]Has VENKAYYA NAIDU RETIRED FRoM ACTIVE POLITICS???
January 25th, 2009 at 11:27 pm
Dear Sir
As it appears, Slumdog Millionaire, seems to be a movie in a bad taste. It might be appealing to Western audience because of the stark images of dramatized poverty and exaggerated madness like the protagonist running for an autograph even after he fell in a pool of shit! All in all the movie is quite disappointing, and frankly speaking, apologize for using some unparliamentary language here but it seems like a striptease of poverty in the slums of India. And to top it, some interested parties and ‘enlightened’ critics are hailing it as a portrayal of ‘real India’ ! It is so shocking to believe that somebody entertains the view that India is one huge slum. It is indeed a fact that India is still predominantly rural, but is it predominantly slum? No, that is a BIG LIE. Personally, I consider it a shame that AR Rehman gave music to this film, we had better expectations from someone who sand Vande Mataram.
Best Regards-Phani
January 25th, 2009 at 11:35 pm
Dear Advani ji :
Namaskar, I am sorry to comment on out-off topic here, but I felt that this is the best way to bring issue to your notice.
Another “Kalyan Singh†in making at Karnataka. Yedeyurappa is pushing his son for MP ticket. His son was not even the BJP member until recently. If he gets the ticket BJP will loose credibility and it will be like Gowda & Sons Vs Yeddi & Sons.
Karnataka is one of the important states, which BJP cannot effort to loose (like happed in Rajastan). Yederuppa,s close association with mining lobby is not a good sign. I hope central leaders of BJP take this issue seriously and sort the issue before it becomes out of hand.
http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx?Title=Son-rise+could+prove+to+be+sunset+for+BSY&artid=46Ntg/DorRU=&SectionID=7GUA38txp3s=&MainSectionID=fyV9T2jIa4A=&SectionName=zkvyRoWGpmWSxZV2TGM5XQ==&SEO=
January 26th, 2009 at 12:16 am
Its a nice topic you have started here. But i feel identity is not the priority for majority of the Indians because we are still busy fighting with each others and getting engrossed in corruption by each passing day. Out of all things Poverty, Education, Corruption, Security & Uniform growth of all sections still remain the major issues, even as we celebrate 59th republic day.
We need a true leader or leaders (or a government) which can take hard steps and not just another vote bank politics.
Are we going to see the use of fast media the way Obama did (some important facts here - http://www.pluggd.in/technology/obama-social-media-campaign-3565/) to paint a clear picture out of the 100’s of political parties, in the upcoming general elections.
January 26th, 2009 at 6:52 am
Respected Advaniji,
I am first time logging in and i have subscribed to yours only because of the respect i have towards you and your party,. I still feel that Your party would be the best one to lead INDIA
in the next election..
January 26th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
DEAR advaniji,
On the account of Republic day let BJP take a pledge to settle all the differences between the States.I hope a statesman like you only can afford to mediate between the states.Its an irony that when our countyr is facing serious threat from global ‘JEHAD”,we are fighting ourselves for land,water and language….
For eg: My state of KARNATKA doesnt have cordial relation with any of its neighbouring states!!!!
It has CAUVERY and HOGENAKKAL dispute with TAMILNADU!!!!
It has dispute on KASARGOD with KERALA STATE!!!!
iT HAS PROBLEM with AP on ALMATTI dam!!!
Karnataka has dispute with GOA on the KRISHNA river
Can INDIA as a country progress with these disputes between the states????
SIR,Can you seriously look into the MAHAJAN COMMITTEE report on border issues and take this as final and atleast resove the BORDER DISPUTES!!!!!
January 26th, 2009 at 4:48 pm
Dear Shri Advani,
I’m a first time commenter on your blog, and will vote for the first time this year.
You have spoken of the need for good governance in India, and your commitment to delivering it. I have no doubts on the sincerity of your beliefs. I hope so much for good governance in our country, and will vote for the party who can promise it.
I am watching images on the TV right now of Indian girls being beaten up in Mangalore. It is a crime against Indian society and tradition to raise one’s hands against a woman.
And yet I see Karnataka’s BJP CM do nothing. Thugs beat up young girls in the name of the same culture we hold to be so important – while your CM is silent.
There can be little doubt, sir, of your own personal commitment to good governance in India. But how can we believe in your party’s ability to actually deliver it - when your own Chief Minister stands silent in the face of such crime?
With best wishes, and with great respect,
RNVV
January 26th, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Dear Advani ji,
A very unfortunate incident in Mangalore on the eve of Republic Day. I am feeling so frustrated on hearing that news. The so called Sri Ram Sena targeting women. That too in the government of BJP in Karnataka. I am not blaiming BJP, but I want you to ensure that the most strict action is taken against those so called moral brigade.
As a fan of BJP, I just want to see BJP Karnataka in full action against those culprits. They are giving bad name to Hinduism worldwide. If such people keep creating such news, the day is not far when hindus will also be seen as Talibans.
Please save the image of Hinduism.
Regards..
January 26th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Respected Advani Ji,
On this Happiest occasion of India’s 59th Republic Day I wish you a Happy Republic Day 2009. In this nice topic started by you on the pre- eve of Republic Day, it would not have been out of place to wish the country men, which the said topic lacks in.
In the brief interaction with the Russian Lady you thought that films and film stars also can become hallmarks of national identity, and possibly powerful agents of international proximity and friendship. It is not only the films and the film stars who can become the hallmarks of national identity, but it is the celebrities and achievers who can be the best brand ambassadors of the country…Whether be it “Abhinav Bindra” who has brought laurels in Olympics, renowned Industrialists like Ambani’s, Ratan Tata etc. What matters is that those bring fame to our Country are the real powerful agents of international proximity and friendship.What happened in Mangalore on 25.01.09 ???These actions result in Identity crisis.
January 26th, 2009 at 11:12 pm
Dear Sir, while I may not agree with all the policies that BJP adopts, I still believe that it is the best of the lot. However, this in no way undermines the fact that BJP is as ineffective as any other party in dealing with issues affecting the daily lives of the common man in India. I would like to know from you what proposals do you have for tackling issues of :
a) corruption(my mother-in-law is doing rounds of govt offices for the past 5 months in vain in order to get the pension of her deceased husband),
b) public health(my hometown used to have anti mosquito spraying atleast once every 6 months around 15 years back. For the past 5 years, there has been none.),
c) roads, some laws against littering in public(our railway stations and bus stands are full of garbage and it keeps on accumulating every day)
Please enlighten us by either suggesting what action your party proposes to take or what actions we ordinary citizens should take to tackle these issues.
January 26th, 2009 at 11:19 pm
In general I have been supporting the policies of the BJP as opposed to those of other parties. I shall be a first-time voter in the upcoming general elections this year just like a million others. For us, our freedom and our right to choose our way of life as individuals is very important. We promise that we will not do anything detrimental to the state, and will not break any laws. All we ask is: let us live our lives as we choose to.
I have brought up this topic in context of the outrage in Mangalore in the name of “Moral Policing” by members of the self-styled “Sri Rama Sena”. It is inexplicable and puzzling, as to why the Karnataka government has not taken expected action. It is my request to you, to ensure that strong and visible action is taken against the perpetrators as well as the organization. I request you to ensure that a precedent is set by means of strong and rigorous action , within the confines of law.
January 26th, 2009 at 11:53 pm
Dear Sir,
I am logging in for the first time. it is my sheer luck to leave a note on your blog. i would rather not use the word comment , as i believe that i am too small to comment on your writing. i just want to wish you a very best of luck for the upcoming election.May God bless you… Jai hind!!!
January 27th, 2009 at 12:35 am
Dear Mr. Advani,
I am a little surprised to note that there has been no comment forthcoming fom you regarding the Mangalore incident. If you are serious about winning the next elections, please ensure that speedy justice prevails. The guilty have to be dealt with severely, the BJP in Karnataka have to display a high level of maturity given the fact that this is BJP’s first government in the South. If this is what is going to happen under BJP rule, then we can pretty much give up hopes of winning the next General Elections. I urge you to impress upon the Karnataka govt to act swiftly and to provide visible and tangible results, ban the organization Shri Ram Sena, they are making a mockery of Ram. If we are aiming to be a progressive country then we should accept the freedom of women and their right to have a good time. Questions should also be asked about why the media were so busy shooting the scene instead of alerting the Police?
January 27th, 2009 at 12:50 am
Blog is really a good idea, this way, it will help us to connect with you and BJP.
I would like to ask basic questions.. all are basically related to one basic question “Why we should vote for BJP?”
Personally thinking, according to me, looking at the current scenario, I don’t see Congress doing any good job but at the same time, there are many people who are not satisfied with the work BJP (or affiliated parties) are doing..
So, without wasting much of the time, here are some of the questions:
1. What do you think about girls going to the pubs and consuming alcohol? (At the same time, what do you think about guys doing the same?)
2. What do you think about people migrating from one state to other for better job opportunities?
Continued in 2nd comment..
January 27th, 2009 at 12:51 am
3. What do you think about Indo-Pak situation, do you think, disallowing Pakistani singers in India is a good move? Warning the shopkeepers not to sell Pakistani music, books etc.. and even asking some of the shopkeepers to change their names? (recent incident, Karachi shop in Mumbai was changed to Jai Shri Krishna)
4. What do you think about changing the city names? (Bombay to Mumbai) and changing all the brands having the old name, forcing them to change to new ones? (If it’s a good movie, how it’s going to help in growth of the city?)
There are many more questions but I guess, this comment form won’t allow me.
Not expecting any replies but still, not losing the hope.
Regards,
Deep
** By “You”, I meant to ask the views of the party..
January 27th, 2009 at 1:29 am
I currently live in washington DC and work for the world bank
Have a few suggestions for our next PM:
1. This blog and Advani ji’s campaign needs to be more of a dialogue. Meet people, talk to them, respond to their questions. Advani ji should respond to questions raised by people on this blog and outside.
2. Please try and move away from choosing Political Appointees for important cabinet positions. Education Ministry needs to be headed by an experienced educator and so is the case with Finance (needs an economist), Defence (needs an ex-army general).
3. Involve the youth in your campaign. Start a BJP youth movement. You can involve youth as young as high school to college to fresh graduates.
4. Communication is the key. Employ an expert team and have them working 24/7 for your campaign.
It would be encouraging if Advani ji were to respond to the above points I raised, but again I understand how difficult it must be for him to take time to read this.
January 27th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
This may be a bit of a tangential topic. But I would like to understand how the Indian society is developing notions of extremism and leaving its tolerance behind. Actions of Sri ram sena, Maharashtra Navnirman sena, Shiv Sena, VHP; are strong indicators of this. It appears as if violence and extremism is taking deep roots in the Indian society. This can never be good. If we can not tolerate fellow human beings, and the only way we express is by breaking bones or properties or symbols of their existence, we have no right to call ourselves civilized. Political parties have a large part to play in the growth or de-growth of this phenomenon. I hope you are taking notice and are challenged enough to take a stand on this. Urban voters are looking up to BJP as a party who can really have the guts. Karnataka experience is the closest for me, and it is not proving to be the right one and making me insecure not because of terrorism from across the border but a very local one.
January 27th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Advani ji,
Its true that the bollywood had been the image of india.. but is not the bollywood filled full of with obscene, vulgar and violent scenes?
We need to do something to stop this degradation of the culture.. how will the next generation grow by seeing all these vulgar and obscene display in bollywood?
January 27th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
hi sir!
i have great respect for you…i don’t know you have time to read all this stuff or not? i think no , u can’t….blogging needs lots of time and for the leader like you its vary hard to manage.
anyway if you are reading these comments then i just want to say that i m very shocked better to say hurted by the way karnaatka govt tackling the mangalore pub case. its BJP govt and sri ram shena is BJP supporter…….
January 27th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
is this the BJP agenda? are you BJP ppl are like this only…if not then why hesitation? why ur govt hesitate to act ? why sir?
personally i like you veru much…..and i urged you to do some thing…till now not a single statement i heard from you.
is this type of behaviour justified? who the hell they are to decie moral code of conduct……who the hell they are to do like this?
i saw you crying after listening song from TZP. but sir this is more bad situation than that? that was the only film here our sisters faced the real situtation where some bloody group of men beat them very badly……..
January 27th, 2009 at 4:03 pm
we are indians where we are talking about democracy , freedom ,,bla bla bla………sir!!!!!!! what? is it so? still u r thinking the same?
thsi is really a bull sheet…..i know these incidents doesn’t effect you ppl……….even u ppl don’t bothered abt this……but please for the sake of our country, for the sake of our sisters think abt this ………..
we know only you can do ……..too much expectations from you……..give them justice….do something so that our sisters can walk with dignity……please sir!!
January 27th, 2009 at 9:49 pm
Resp Advaniji,
Pls wake up to conspiracy of maligning Hindutva. Ever since BJP cam on strong on its Hindutva theme, few leaders have planned to create bad name for it. Deliberate promotion to goondas to use Shri Ram’s name, use hindutva theme and create terror in minds of people against Hindutva and eventually against BJP.
Pls study such acts over last 3-5 years and you shall get the seriousness of my comment here.
Need is to investigate such outfits/people, their source of funds, relationships with certain people, even 20 years back and expose them….real fast.
Plsact before public puts blame for all such acts on BJP.
January 27th, 2009 at 11:31 pm
The incident that took place in Mangalore is very unfortunate and I am happy that the assaulters have been arrested. I sincerely believe that it is not enough, such actions should be nipped in the bud and aggression in any form should not be allowed. One thing that shocked me was the role of the media. Obviously they had advance notice, but they didn’ inform the police so that the assault on innocent citizens could be prevented. I am glad that The CM of Karnataka is taking action, and I hope it is taken in the long run and not just to satisfy the people right now. In addition it was important for the BJP to distance itself from the Sri Ram Sena. However I would urge you to visit their blog (http://www.shriramsena.com/), where they mention the BJP over and over again!!!!
January 28th, 2009 at 12:48 am
Dear Advani Ji,
I am agree with the descent message. Every nation (Even every person also) has something different. India has too many things to proud on. It is the country which has touched the peek of spirituality as well as prosperity and peace at the time of Buddha, Mahaveer and in earlier times also. It is the first (or among the few oldest civilization) - Sindhu Ghati Sabhyata. And ministry of External affairs has recognized the Youga, classical music etc too late in my view.
What is wrong in projecting the identities of the nation which has sparking glory. YOGA, Spritual sciences, classical music etc are recognized by western world was far early than our MEA.
January 28th, 2009 at 1:02 am
Contd…
I feel one thing that we are as a country lacking some self confidence or self esteem from a long time. I have never seen this country as a powerful country and with self respect. The reason is simple that we have too much illusions from the western culture and there prosperity that we never learn from Japan or China the result is we are having only two thing as achievements:
(1) First is Pseudo Secularism and (2) And largest (but probably the poorest) democracy.
I feel what is wrong if we put photo of Ram, Krishna, Buddha , mahaveer, Meer, Kabir, Nanak etc on currency. Pseudo secularist will make blatant noise. To those pseudo secularists I can only ask that - Does Lord ‘Krisna’ not the sparking star of the great land of India. how can it hurt the spirit of secularism. Like Gandhi Ji, Lord Krishna is a star and even more glorious star of the Indian horizon.
January 28th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Advani Ji what is your stand on tackling problems with Pakistan and other neighbouring countries!
January 28th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Anyway its a good blog.
January 28th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru created a unique system in India, where Swadeshi theology and martyres have no relevance. His so called political term- ‘Secularism’ has corrupted the entire system. In a democratic system, media is considered as fourth pillar. But what happened on 25th December 2008 is a shame for whole country. Media , particularly the news channels, was showing news of Christmas, Vetican and Pope and all the channels were ignoring the martyrdom of Baba Jorawar Singh ji and Baba Fateh Singh ji. No news from the JOD-MELA, celebrated at Fatehgarh Sahib in the very memory of these two younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh ji Maharaj between 24 to 26 December, was being telecasted. Samething was being done by the print media. What type of country they want to make?
January 29th, 2009 at 4:44 am
Dear Mr. LK Advani,
Thanks for starting a blog. President Obama adopted the technique of communicating people via internet whereas his counterpart failed to do the same. The net savvy generation welcome the move. You have also taken the new generation of India into account.
Uses of internet is growing by lips and bounce in India and this innitiative will certainely add value to your campaign.
Regards,
Jyoti Kothari
http://vardhamangems.webs.com
January 29th, 2009 at 4:54 am
Respected Advaniji,
I have a high regard to you and your party but i am very upset with BJP performance in these days.BJP as a party morality is decreasing.
I am a software engineer working in Texas,USA used to follow BJP like my religion.I always accept what ever you and vajpaee speak in public.
just 2 days back whatever happened in karnataka is really shamefull.these people should know that they are beating hindus in the name of god.That is really disgusting.What about our BJP CM was doing.I believe he is not as much capable like narendra modi.Please place a good administrator otherwise BJP may loose the ground in first BJP southern state
And another thing if these kind of activities will not be stopped our dream of ram temple will be like a dream.Our religion is getting demonized.Whole media is behind BJP.BJP should be cautious in their respective states.
January 29th, 2009 at 5:02 am
Respected Advaniji,
I am not sure whether you will reply me or not.I have certain suggestions .
1.Please bring young and educated leaders to bjp.BJP now need 10 Narendra modi to revive indian politics
2.Please keep young and experience people like arun jaitley or sushma swaraj as spoke person.
3.Please control these bajrang dal ,ram sena like organization
They should spread their message politically.There are so
many issues pending
3.1 Use them to make protest against bangladeshi muslims
who are changing our demography
3.2.They should unite all cast hindus in UP and other states and help them every aspect.
4.Please computerise all BJP states which will increase your direct communication with people.I believe that will change whole political calculations.
5.Karnataka CM is looking to be ineffective, lazy and uninspiring.Please place a strong leader which will create a good impression in remaining south states.
Jai Hind..
January 29th, 2009 at 5:46 am
अडवानीजी,
गणतंतà¥à¤° दिवस के अवसरपर ’à¤à¤¶à¥à¤µà¤°à¥à¤¯à¤¾ राय’, ’कà¥à¤®à¤¾à¤° सानू’, ’अकà¥à¤·à¤¯à¤•à¥à¤®à¤¾à¤°â€™, और ’हेलन खान’ को पदà¥à¤®à¤¶à¥à¤°à¥€ पà¥à¤°à¤¸à¥à¤•à¤¾à¤°à¥‹à¤‚से समà¥à¤®à¤¾à¤¨à¤¿à¤¤ किया गया. इसके बारेमे आपके कà¥à¤¯à¤¾ खयालात हैं? इन चारोंके ’फ़ॅनà¥â€™ होते हà¥à¤µà¥‡ à¤à¥€ उनà¥à¤¹à¥‡ पदà¥à¤® पà¥à¤°à¤¸à¥à¤•à¤¾à¤° दिये जानेपर आम जनता में चिढ सी हैं. पà¥à¤°à¤§à¤¾à¤¨à¤®à¤‚तà¥à¤°à¥€ होनेपर कà¥à¤¯à¤¾ आप पदà¥à¤® पà¥à¤°à¤¸à¥à¤•à¤¾à¤°à¥‹à¤‚का à¤à¤¸à¤¾ चीप बटवारा रोकेंगे?
January 29th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Dear Sir,
I like the way you are using Internet as a medium. I am an Internet professional with a renowned International media company and I watched Obama’s campaign on the internet closely.
I can suggest you to make a profile on Linkedin.com , if you have not done already! A lot of decision makers and professionals are on Linkedin and it would be a great idea to get a community formed around your profile.
I would be glad to help if required.
With Best Regards
Alok Bhatnagar
January 29th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Dear Advaniji:
I’d like to draw your attention to the following — a list of what President Obama did on his first day in office!
“Upon taking office, Obama ordered all secret U.S. prisons
closed immediately, and the detention center at Guantanamo
Bay closed within a year; he stopped the torture of
American prisoners; granted access to all U.S. detainees
to the International Red Cross; ended the practice by
which detainees could be sent to countries where they
might be tortured; froze the salaries of all White House
officials making more than $100,000; ordered all
government agencies to “adopt a presumption in favor of
disclosure” regarding Freedom of Information Act requests;
ordered all administration appointees to take an ethics
pledge; ended a government ban on funding for groups that
provide abortion services or counseling abroad; and
revoked Executive Order 13233, which placed limits on
public access to the records of former presidents.”
Copyright: Harpers Magazine
January 29th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
With its wealth, intellectual power, vibrant democracy and astounding demographic advantage, what prevents India’s leaders — and, therefore, the nation — from doing and achieving, in the manner of President Obama? Corruption holds India back — notwithstanding all the fluff about transparency and the right to information; so does a recalcitrant, outmoded and woefully complacent bureaucracy. Our citizens deserve justice, and they deserve equality of opportunity, access to health care, universal primary and secondary education, and welfare.
January 29th, 2009 at 3:11 pm
pranams advaniji
i had only heard about your film journalism, now i got a chance to read one. looking forward to read more
Anu Narayanan
Kochi
January 29th, 2009 at 10:38 pm
I remember posting the question in your rediff chat and also posted in the blog node “How Gujarat has become ‘Vibrant’”
Quote
It is amusing to find these days some sections of the media hostile to the BJP labouring hard to discern even in the Vibrant Gujarat event evidence of differences in the BJP.
Unquote
Every educated english media watchers in INDIA are aware that CNN-IBN and NDTV are biased
with Congress. In that case why BJP is not coming up with their own English media. Till then BJP can deny and differ interviews for CNN-IBN and NDTV and can air their views through TIMES NOW which is more moderate channel.
This has really worked in US when FOX Channel was biased towards to Republicans and Democrats avoided the FOX. So the CNN came with the logo stating “No Bias No Bullâ€
In this scenario is it important for you sir to accept the lifetime achievement award given by NDTV.
Hope we people who are tracking your blog get reply.
January 30th, 2009 at 12:18 am
Sir, What is your plans for control the infiltration and illegal immigrants
January 30th, 2009 at 1:04 am
Sir, Can you correct me if I am wrong in my logic.
If India is the mother of secularism, and if it has to be preserved by all means, it indirectly justifies the cause to safe guard the sprit of the same which is nothing by the HINDUSIM, or Sanathana Dhramra.
In lieu to the above, how come a party supporting the cause to retain that spirit becomes COMMUMNAL, as the SICKULAR parties claim.
January 30th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
Your post about the importance of the media and free speech reminds of two instances that revealed the immaturity of India’s democracy. One was the staging of the play “Mee Nathuram Godse Boltoy” which the center attempted to ban. The other was the arrest of a gentleman accused of posting “insulting images” of Chhatrapati Shivaji on Orkut.
More than 60 years after independence, our society still hasn’t grasped the concept of free speech.
January 30th, 2009 at 10:18 pm
Dear friends, patriots and BJP supporters,
All Indians must know what is store for them tomorrow if they do not act today.
Looks like Mughalistan is going to be the future of India - unless we act NOW:
http://www.bengalgenocide.com/mughalistan.php
January 31st, 2009 at 4:34 pm
hello Mr Advani i know i am deviating from current topic but all the time congress and it’s allies call BJP a unsecular party because BJP stands for support of Hindus First of all the issue is that when someone stand up for minorities like muslims etc they are called secular while when BJP stands up for hindus it is called unsecular just because a party stands for a majority it can’t be un secular moreover you stand for the whole nation not just hindus surely UPA is playing a big vote bank card by saying this and misleading the people of country . I am sorry to state that congress has defined the word secular in a manner which serves its purpose . i am concluding bu wishing you all the best for lok sabha elections and hope you win and take the country forwars in all aspects
January 31st, 2009 at 11:14 pm
Sir…I draw strength, inspiration from your personality, views & actions. When you know you are right you neither clarify nor worry of the consequences. We love you sir and I am trying to take as many things as possible from your virtues. Will try to follow your path of Honest, Integrity, capability and nationalism. Best regards & Love, Rajat Krishan
January 31st, 2009 at 11:51 pm
Dear Sir,
I have no doubt on your capabilities and leadership. but have to work more around the people leaving in the village and the education level, we have to encourage people to work on the issues like ” Taare Zamme pe”.
February 1st, 2009 at 3:10 am
Mr. Advani, we like you and your thought but now India requires a clear path and a perfect road map about..
01. To make India the easiest and best place in the world to set up and grow a business.
02. You try to build stronger more integrated communities.
03. Reform Police and Judicial system.
04. Make Culture, media and sport very top on your agenda as they are vital for India’s quality of life and economy.
05. Give a clear message for respect our Armed Forces, and ensure that Forces’ families and veterans are taken care of.
February 1st, 2009 at 2:51 pm
Respected Sri.Advaniji,
Please permit me to use this space for giving a suggestion to keep our rivers clean. For this I suggest the following steps.
(1) Lay huge hume pipes along the bangs of the rivers.
(2) Connect all sewage/drain water to this pipelines giving a safe passage to the sea without mixing in the river water. Clean the sewage/drain water at the respective points of entry before passing through these pipeline.
(3) Then and then only desilt and clean the river bed.
Though the work appears to be huge please remember that nothing is impossible. we have got the largest railway network. The whole country connected by motorable roads.
Please note the employment oppertunity it will create.
PLEASE TAKE UP THE WORK OF INTERLINKING THR RIVERS THE MOMENT YOU BECOME THE PRIME MINISTER.
BEST WISHES.
February 3rd, 2009 at 6:46 am
Aadharniya AdvaniJI,
After reading the last two lines of this articles I remember my 3 year old nephew was visited Hyderabad from interior village of Tamilnadu - and it happened to me to ask here A- for, B for C for D for — etc… when she came to I — you can’t guess that little heart said I for INDIA. My eyes were wet instantly. My name is Bharadwaj I’m proud of it. Her’s Priyadharshini (IndiraJI’s pet name by bappuji). and She sings National Anthem in such a Volume I can’t just express my emotion in words.
When villages are grooming toddler’s with all that patrioticity, I really dont understand that no Schools in metro cities are literally put into practice of National Anthem or Vande Matharam. They feel shy or shy away of loosing minority entry fees. Why should that be. My another nephew donno National Anthem as she is studying in 1st std.
Do we need to force it… and get labelled as Terrorists???
Wish we had answer for that…
February 3rd, 2009 at 3:45 pm
sir
i would like to express mine and received your views on the topic which is a global concern.
terrorism has been the most known topic from the last few months. after the mmbai attack
the whole media has made pakistan responsible for the act but as we know pak is itself a victim
of terror so it is not wright toheld pak s responsible. o.k there may be some compromise done by the pak people at local level but as i said do we have a right to say it we ourselves have kneeled down to corruption.at every level we are facing it. and also as in the malegaon tragedy it was our people who supported the terrorists. so my point is we first look ourselves and then have a look at others.
February 9th, 2009 at 12:42 am
Sir,
I intend to draw your attention on the crippling menace of terrorism in and around our nation.
It’s 3 months since we saw the shameful attack on our financial capital and till now all we have reacted is by press statements. All the more we have irresponsible parties and groups openly supporting banned organizations freely.
Here is my opinion in my blog on the LTTE menace: http://world-howiseeit.blogspot.com/
February 9th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
points to ponder for ” self centered citizens ” and venal politicans….
long time back i had the opportunity to visit the country holland. I went to a surinamese shop to buy rice.the shop keeper and i started talking about the tax system. The individual told me that he was paying a pretty heavy tax vis -a -vis the income he was making,but he also tod me he had no grudges in paying so. I aked him why is it so….
he pointed to a street light that was just around the corner.He said ,that street light is always in working condition 365 days a year, come rain, come snow, come hailstroms,come lightning, come what may and even if the light bracket is damaged, it is replaced within 24hrs. so the taxes i pay keeps the assembly working for me 365 days a year, and hence was very happy paying the taxes.
the citizens and the government must not enter a ” egg first or chicken first ” argument.
om tat sat
February 12th, 2009 at 5:34 am
Advani is wonderful. We know him as politician, statesman and administrator. However, He is here in a different look. He shows his interest in movies! He rightly depicted that India was symbolized by Raj Kapoor in Russia at that time.
Some of my relatives are in Gems and Jewelry business in Moscow and they had similar experience.
Jyoti Kothari
http://www.gulabinagarvicharmanch.blogspot.com
http://vardhamangems.webs.com
February 18th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
haathon mein le hath chalein, bhajpa ke sath chalein
swabhiman ke sath chalein, bhajpa ke sath chalein
rakhna ho gar maan desh ka, aur desh ki bhasha ka
pokhran se rashtrasangh tak, atal ji ke sath chalein
dwapar yug mein ‘balkrishan’ ne, asuron ka sanhar kiya
‘aatankasur’ se ladne ko, lalkrishan ke sath chalein
sadiyon pehle ma ganga ko, laye bhagirath prithvi par
ma narmada ka ghar lana ho to, modi ke sath chalein
choti-moti dukh taqleef, aa jati hai har ghar mein
masla ho par jahan desh ka, wahan mil-julkar sath chalein
vot dalna farz hai, har loktantra ke prehari ka
karne ko matdaan chhodkar doli-o-baraat chalein
Dear Advani Ji,
I’m a 60 year ‘young’ supporter of Janshangh/RSS and BJP since the earliest days of the gair-congresswaad. I would like to contribute my little part in the upcoming BJP campaign. Please do get in touch at delhidreams@gmail.com
February 22nd, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Hi Advaniji,
After our independence we never had a manifesto for the middle class. It is time BJP has one. As I have written so many times in so many formats, it is very important BJP starts attracting the Indian middle class. As urbanization increases and barries of our old caste culture starts fading (not totally ofcourse) it is time that BJP starts thinking about the Indian middle class.
Yep, we thought about the poor farmers but what about the thousands of middles class people who are not able pay their emi because of the increase in interest rates. How come a guy who borrowed at 7% pay interest at 12% in 2 years time frame.
Again, this time since more urban people will be voting it is very important that BJP gets it right. Only “We will build RAM temple rhetoric” won’t work.
Srinath
February 26th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Cuckold…
What a great article. I stumbled into your site when I was searching for movies and I must say I really enjoyed your post. Will be back to check more out in the future!…
March 6th, 2009 at 12:27 am
Dear Advaniji
The subcontinent is looking for a leader. India should champion and lead the subcontinent instead of India alone. Otherwise, the people of the subcontinent will start killing each other. What is holding you back?.
My favourite collections on Patriotism:
When you kill others for your nation, it is patriotism; When he kills you for his nation, it is terrorism.
You’ll never have a quiet world until you knock the patriotism out of the human race - George Bernard Shaw.
It is lamentable, that to be a good patriot one must become the enemy of humanity - Voltaire.
True patriotism hates injustice in its own land more than anywhere else.
Patriotism is a superstition artificially created and maintained through a web of lies and falsehoods, robbing us of our dignity and increasing our arrogance and conceit.
Patriots kill the enemy for their nation. Better patriots kill the enmity instead of the enemy.
March 7th, 2009 at 11:22 am
Confederation of the subcontinent: Part 1
While Indians and Pakistanis are happily blaming each other, they forget that both are as much fanatically patriot as the other party and they will do anything (read nuke and get nuked) for their nation. Their patriotism is being determined by the amount of hatred for the other rather than the love for their own people. It has become so vulgar that they are openly unleashing covert operations against each other validating the doctrine that “If you kill others for your nation, it is patriotism; When he kills you for his nation, it is terrorism”. The hard truth is no one can touch even an inch of each other’s land.
The irony is, one was founded on the principles of non-violence and secularism while the other one was founded on equality, justice and universal brotherhood. Let us ask certain blunt questions. Will the liquidation or disintegration of one state, bring that peace and prosperity to the other ?. Never.
March 7th, 2009 at 11:24 am
Confederation of the subcontinent: Part 2
We Indians know very well that our 1.2 billion+ growing population is a silent time bomb ticking right under our arse. Pakistanis know very well that their leadership has proudly put their nation on the world map as one of the most dangerous destinations in the world.
Let us be honest. If you try to redraw the map in the subcontinent, it will get polarised into 650 million Muslims vs 900 million Hindus. Let us not forget the population of around 500 million dalits whose champion B.R.Ambedkar brought the upper caste ruling elites down to their knees by threatening mass conversion to Budhism and Islam, 60 years back. Ironically, for these very same reasons 1947 partition happened. History is unforgiving and will repeat itself, if we ignore. Let us NOT rekindle this silent volcano.
March 7th, 2009 at 11:26 am
Confederation of the subcontinent: Part 3
The subcontinent is in a turmoil. Added to this, to coverup it’s own failures in Afghanistan and Iraq, US has started unleashing chaos and civil war in the subcontinent. All are in confusion and blaming each other. The politicians are happily sweeping their internal failures under the carpet. The subcontinent is very badly looking for a collective leadership. Only way for us to survive is, India should champion and lead the subcontinent instead of dreaming that Indo-US-Israel deal will culminate into a regional powerhouse and eventually will fulfill it’s grand vision of “Akhand Bharat”.
Look around the world. Where ever subcontinent manpower has gone for work and better life, those countries have prospered. Unfortunately, in our own region we are killing each other.
March 7th, 2009 at 11:30 am
Confederation of the subcontinent: Part 4
Let us forget this Hindu vs Muslim business and unite as one. Otherwise, in another 10 years, honest citizens like you and me will become refugees in our own land. Leaders like LK Advani, knows this very well because 60 years back he became a refugee in his own homeland. A CONFEDERATION OF THE SUBCONTINENT, proposed by LK Advani 10 years back, is the only solution for us to survive. Pakistan will definitely support this proposition and is eagerly waiting.
Peace and God bless.
March 17th, 2009 at 7:08 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 1
Dear Advaniji
This is my direct appeal to you, to project India as the natural leader for the subcontinent. As a nation, we have to do some honest soul searching and if required, we may have to unlearn the past.
1. Why India does not have good relationship with all of it’s neighbours
Enmity with Pakistan is well known. Why all other neighbours Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and China do not have good relationship with India?. But all SAARC nations have very good realtionship with China and even are very proud of it. Recently, even Mauritius was visited bt the Chinese premier and they have signed pacts and deals. Why is this aversion for India?.
March 17th, 2009 at 7:13 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 2
2. Is Pakistan responsible for India’s poor growth compared to China?
China is atleast 30 years ahead of India in infrastructure. Why India could not achieve this despite having a large pool of highly qualified manpower in all sectors and world class institutions like IIT, IIM etc? US is the biggest beneficiary of our IIT and other high tech talent. Does the Pakistan factor take away our budget,time, energy and resources?
3. Which is better for India?. Pakistan’s friendship or enmity?.Why?
Peace and friendship between India and Pakistan is impossible. But enmity also not desirable. Unfortunately, both the nations have to live as neighbours. India is surrounded by all unfriendly nations like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and China.
4. How do you see India in another 10 years - 2020?
March 17th, 2009 at 7:15 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 3
Forget Pakistan for some time:
Imagine for a moment that Pakistan doesn’t exist and we have absolutely no more threats and cross-border terrorism. Let us NOT bother what our Army and Security will do without Pakistan ?. China could progress, because it had no one to blame. In other words, it did not blame the neighbours to sweep it’s failures under the carpet..
Once we shift our focus from Pakistan, we will realise the magnitude of the threat from this 1.2+ billion, happily growing silent time bomb called over-population.
The subcontinent is in a turmoil. The root cause of terrorism and riots is over-population. Around 1.7 billion. We don’t accept the fact that atleast 25% of this population has lost all means for survival. Their lands have been snatched away, governments have abandoned them because they have no political value etc. They have nothing to loose and ready to do anything for food.
March 17th, 2009 at 7:16 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 4
We have already shifted our goal post of “roti, kapda, makan†from vision 2020 to 2050. In another 10 years, it will become unmanageable and will lead to chaos, riots, crimes and civil wars. We are silently heading towards a disaster. All our high profile talks and dreams will become rubbish and total crap, if we don’t act now.
Population adoption and dispersion - An Appeal to the world community:
Countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Saudi, Oman, Canada, Australia, USA and Europe have vast lands and resources but with meagre or very less population. A detailed list of population density is available in this link.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_population_density
March 17th, 2009 at 7:18 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 5
India can NOT utilise atleast 50% of it’s population for ever. Similar situation exists with other neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Srilanka and Nepal in the subcontinent. India commands very high respect in the geopolitics and world listens when India speaks. This is a genuine crisis and India should appeal to the world leaders to help us solve this humanitarian crisis.
More than 50% of the inhabitable lands on this planet are empty. Other countries, by absorbing this population, are not doing a favour. They have a serious crisis of decreasing and aged population. Marriage is outdated and people prefer cohabitation and livein relationships without children. There is a serious shortage of girl children in some countries. They very badly need manpower with good health to do their labour work.
March 17th, 2009 at 7:20 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 6
By taking up the over-population crisis of the subcontinent, which is genuine, suddenly the region will see India as their champion and the bad guys will be taken aback. I will NOT get into the details but this population crisis appeal to the world community is the act of angels and prophets.
Population relocation and rehabilitation logistics:
Many people may find it astonishing and ridiculous, thinking about the amount of logistics involved in relocating and rehabilitating this manpower. This will not happen overnight. It can be definitely accomplished over a period of 15-20 years.
March 17th, 2009 at 7:21 am
Over-Population - India’s biggest threat: - Part 6 - End
The over-populated countries participating in this program will happily share the initial cost of relocation and rehabilitation as a compensation for the land and property left by this population. Even otherwise, by keeping this unutilised manpower, these countries are loosing several billions every year in terms of loss of growth, inability to expand and maintain infrastructure, dwindling resources, and the collateral damage on the nations quality of life.
Population dispersion and adoption is the only viable, economical solution which can show results in 10-15 years.
Putting a man on the moon also sounded astonishing and incredible once. Finally, mankind did it.
March 19th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Moderation and fear psychosis of Indian Mslims: Part 1
The moderation in Indian Muslims was brought by the power of Hinduism. Pakistan is a very good example of what Islam without a counter force can lead to.
Indian Muslims should learn Gita, Quran, Sanskrit and Sanatana Dharma to understand and appreciate the true values in Islam. Indian Muslims should understand the power of criticism and must invite others to openly criticise Muslims. Encourage people like Mr.Varun Gandhi to make more hate speeches against Muslims and listen patiently.
I wish, we could follow the great example shown by our Prophet (PBUH) when it comes to tolerance and patience.
March 19th, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Moderation and fear psychosis of Indian Mslims: Part 2
There was a old lady who use to throw rubbish on Prophet (PBUH) whenever he went past her home. One day, she did not throw rubbish and Prophet (PBUH) was surprised and found that she was ill. He went inside her house and enquired if he could be of any help for her. He offered kind words and helped her with whatever was possible. The old lady cried and became a great admirer of Prophet (PBUH).
The best way for Indian Muslims to get out of the fear psychosis is to welcome hate speeches by people like Varun Gandhi, Bal Thackeray, Modi, Praveen Tagodia etc. Just play calm, cool and laugh. Follow the example set by Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).
Mr.Varun Gandhi, Peace be upon you and God bless.
March 26th, 2009 at 3:58 am
No superstar politicians with you Mr Advani. Only good and simple people like Mr balbir Punj can be there. Why r the people with hot blood missing from the party. Killer instinct is lacking.
March 28th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
Varun Gandhi and collective failure of corrupt Indian Muslim leadership - Part 1
Just look at the Christians. They have invested all the revenue generated from their missionary services to build world class schools, colleges and hospitals. They have forced the rich Christian nations to contribute for the development of the nation. Whereas, these Muslim leaders have branded the entire community as dole eaters and vote bank. They have NEVER demanded rich Gulf countries like Saudi to invest in India for Muslim schools and hospitals in return for the millions of dollars of revenue they contribute through their annual Haj pilgrimage. Reason?. They don’t want Muslim money in Hindu land. These shameless crooks have been eating doles and filling their deep pockets in the name of Minority commission, Wakf board managers, Haj subsidies etc and in return they have completely destroyed the dignity, self respect and self reliance capability of the Muslim masses
March 28th, 2009 at 5:24 pm
Varun Gandhi and collective failure of corrupt Indian Muslim leadership - Part 2
My conclusion is, the self styled Indian Muslim leaders and cronies hand-picked by Congress have completely ruined our identity. If i cry for my constitutional rights are jeopardised, it is purely because of the collective failure of the corrupt Indian Muslim leadership. I blame them directly and they have completely let down ordinary Muslims like me from living a peaceful life in my nation. They have crippled the entire administrative machinery and Hindu public from supporting or upholding or delivering any justice for us. Now they are trying to join the crowd and act like innocent peace loving Muslims after seeing the hard earned success of few individual Muslims. It is wrong to say that Indian government took silent revenge on Indian Muslims because of Pakistan. Pakistan is NOT responsible for the failures of Indian Muslims. The enemy is within.
March 28th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Varun Gandhi and collective failure of corrupt Indian Muslim leadership - Part 3
The emergence of Hindutva has exposed the ugly under belly of Muslim leaders and has kicked them out of their comfort zone. Babri Masjid demolition shook the Muslim masses from their deep slumber. Gujarat 2002, rubbed the salt on their wounds. Mr.Varun Gandhi has very good reasons to make such hate speeches and i congrtaulate him for boldly breaking out of the pseudo-secular crap created by his fore fathers. We ordinary Muslim masses are secretly happy to see the uneasiness on the face of these so called Muslim leaders and he should do more in the interest of the nation but without violence or communal riots.
Mr.Varun Gandhi, peace be upon you and God bless in your noble mission to liberate Muslims from this slavery.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
Indo-Pak partition was a master stroke of genius. It saved Hinduism and in turn the subcontinent - Part1
Indo-Pak partition was a master stroke of a genius. My conclusion is partition was inevitable and who ever was responsible, Mr.Jinnah or Mr.Nehru, they knew the irreparable fault line and it was divided precisely on that line. Except Hyderabad, there was no fault line running across South India because of the regional language factor. The differences will be put to rest jointly by Hindus and Muslims very soon across India.
Had partition NOT happened, definitely multi-militant Islam would have spread like a hydra headed monster and taken over the region. Subcontinent would have become a boiling cauldron. The region would have been pushed back to stone ages and a bunch of militant leaders and feudal lords will be holding each others leg and would not allow the region to move forward. In this confusion and commotion, a great religion called Hinduism would have fell silent.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Indo-Pak partition was a master stroke of genius. It saved Hinduism and in turn the subcontinent - Part 2
Hinduism brought sanity and good sense in the minds of Indian Muslims. I discovered the meaning of my faith Islam from Hinduism. Indian Muslims had to pay and continue to pay a heavy price for partition but they have gained tremendously in terms of the essential skills required to coexist and survive in a multi-cultural, multi-religious society. After all, they have survived against alienation and isolation for 60 years and have learnt great values from Hinduism. Today, they have reached the critical mass for self reliance and are getting aligned with Hindus as one nation. Indian Muslims are going to play a very important role in transforming the region.
March 30th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
Indo-Pak partition was a master stroke of genius. It saved Hinduism and in turn the subcontinent - Part 3
The Dalit leader B.R.Ambedkar called for rununciation of Hinduism by Dalits and convert to Budhism or Islam or Christianity. He declared that he was born as a Hindu but will NEVER die as a Hindu. After partition, he went to Sri Lanka and embraced Budhism. Millions of Dalits also converted to Budhism.
The Muslim league avoided any deals or discussions with Mr.B.R.Ambedkar. Jinnah could NOT create a secular Pakistan but ironically, by isolating militant Islam from India he laid the foundation for secular India. There is a strong reason, why Advaniji described Jinnah was a secularist in heart.
Partition saved Hinduism. Without the power of Hinduism, the subcontinent would have become a somalia and banana republic. Hinduism is responsible for whatever relative peace and calm prevails today. Indian model of governance alone can bail out Pakistan.
April 10th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
Varun Gandhi, Nehru and Jinnah are right. Hindus must help Muslims to leave India, peacefully - Part 1
Varun Gandhi has the guts to call a spade a spade. He spoke out the hard truth. This is what Nehru, Jinnah and Gandhi concluded 60 years back. Unfortunately, it was a job half done. Without Muslims, India would have surpassed China and might have brought a world class quality of life for Hindus.
India is a peaceful nation. The presence of 250 million Muslims is a huge burden on the already over-burdened nation. Indian Muslims don’t even realise that it is impossible for a secular Hindu majority nation to provide anything for Muslims even after 100 years. More than 70% of 850 million Hindus are as poor as Muslims. The government is elected by Hindus, to serve Hindus first. The Hindu representatives have to first feed their people and are free to give away any left over to Muslims, later on.
April 10th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
Varun Gandhi, Nehru and Jinnah are right. Hindus must help Muslims to leave India, peacefully - Part 2
Naturally, it may look like feeding popcorns to elephants for a large 250 million Muslim population. Beware, any Muslim specific investment, subsidies and doles will create a severe backlash and riots across the nation. In short, Muslims are NOT required any more and they need NOT have any hopes, either.
Indian Muslims should appeal to their 55 OIC Islamic nations that they should be declared as citizens of Ummah and must be absorbed in these nations. This is a genuine humanitarian crisis and Indian Muslims have a responsibility to resolve this crisis.
I appeal to 850 million Hindus to help 250 million Indian Muslims leave India, peacefully. Muslims need to deliver something more serious than patriotism alone.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:49 am
The BJP should name a deputy/ vice/ assistant Prime Minister immediately. To play it safe you can mention that this candidate is currently only the BJP’s candidate, yet to get an NDA stamp, unlike Shri L K Advani who is an NDA PM candidate. My person of choice for this post will be Shri Arun Jaitley. He is highly educated, holds a secular, liberal & modern image, new age politician with no negative publicity. If he is not contesting the LS polls, you can field him from Lucknow, with his profile(also Brahmn) and the subsequent incompetence of other party candidates, he will surely retain the prestigious constituency of Shri A B Vajpayee ji. The young generation will like this move very much.At last one very important thing. Coming 25th APRIL 2009, is Shanivaar as well as a no-moon (amabasya) day. Try to arrange for any Yagya/puja for Shanidev and Kaali. Thank you for your precious time, and best of luck for LS 2009 polls.
April 14th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
DEAR MR. ADVANI JI
I WANTED TO MAKE COMMENT OF MR. MANMOHAN SINGH’S COMMENT WHERE HE ASKED U ” WHY A LAUHPURUS BECAME A SOFT ON THE ISSUE OF KANDHAR”
I WANTED TO TELL MR. MANMOHAN SINGH JI THAT STEP TAKEN BY YOU ON THAT TIME WAS 100 % JUSTIFIED, BECAUSE AS INDIAN WE CAN NOT PLAY WITH LIFE OF 167 INNOCENT PEOPLE FOR ONLY AND ONLY 3 MILITANT, IF PLAIN WAS HIJACKED IN INDIA THEN WE CAN ASK YOUR SOME SORT OF SECURITY QUS.
I WANTED TO ASK MR. MANMOHAN SINGH JI THAT AFTER A BIG SECURITY FAILURE HE WAS PLAYED WITH MORE THAN 250 INNOCENT PEOPLE, AND DIGNITY OF THE COUNTRY, WHAT STEPS HE WAS TAKEN AS A PRIME MINISTER TO PROTECT INDIA FROM THE MILITANTS, WHICH SHOW THAT HE IS STRONG P.M. I NEVER SEEN IN FIVE YEAR UPA GOVERNMENT TIME, WHEN MR. MANMOHAN SINGH JI TAKEN A DICESION AND THAT WAS NOT APPROVED BY SMT. SONIYA GANDHI, YES THAT IS FACT THAT MR. MANMOHAN SINGH IS SHOWED HIMSELF AS A WEEK P.M. OF INDIA, AND SMT SONIYA GANDHI IS HEADING THE PM. SEAT INDIRECTLY.
April 20th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
3 terrorists were released in kandhar because 166 innocent lives were at stake but will the congress tell the nation that was the life of congress stalwart GHULAM NABI AZAD’s brother in law was more valuable and precious than the lives of 166 passengers of IC 814 flight and 3 dreaded terrorists? which were released in September 1991 to save the life of tassaduq dev who is brother in law of GHULAM NABI AZAD, the then minister of parliamentary affairs of congress government at centre. AZAD is still the heavy weight pillar of congress.
April 20th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
On the same line in august 1991 daughter(Nahida soz) of SAIFFUDDIN SOZ, the present state president of J&K congress committee was rescued from terrorists by unconditional release of hard core pak trained dreaded terrorist mushtaq ahmad and his goons.
April 22nd, 2009 at 10:41 pm
Gowda…
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April 23rd, 2009 at 11:55 am
Slumdog, Will You Go Bollywood?…
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